Species from the Peruvian Jungle

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Vittorio S. And Andy A.
English  Name: Common Squirrel Monkey
Scientific Name: Saimiri Sciureus

Spanish Name:

Size: 10-14 inches (26-36 cm). 14-17 inches (35-42.5 cm). Weight: 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 pounds (0.75-1.1 kg).

Life span: Life span is 15 to 21 years.

 Diet: Insects, spiders, bird eggs, young birds, fruit and nuts
 

Predators: Human.
 

Adaptations:
Squirrel monkeys move through the trees by leaping. They have thighs that are shorter relative to their lower legs; this allows more jumping force. 

Interesting Facts:
Can move almost silently through the upper canopy. They make large sounds to alarm themselves when a predator(human) is coming. They are in groups from 20 to 100.

 Bibliography: 1. MacDonald, David. 1987. Encyclopedia of Mammals. Equinox, Oxford.
       2. Novak, Ronald and Paradiso, John. 1983. Walker's Mammals of the World, 4th Ed, Vol. I, Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, MD.
       3. Docent infomation sheets.
       EC:7/93
       AC: added info on 10/14/04